Nominations are being sought from those who want to acknowledge the quality of treatment they have received, either for themselves or a loved one.

Whether in hospital, in the community, in a GP surgery, or at the dentist, this is an opportunity to reward the people who give so much, helping the NHS provide world-class care to the people of Scotland.

Last year there were five finalists from the Forth Valley area and Sally Boa, a Speech and Language Therapist was the overall winner of the Innovation Award.

There are 16 award categories, including the Nurses Award, the Volunteers Award, the Top Team Award and the renowned Doctors Award.

The awards will culminate in a prestigious award ceremony on the 6 November 2014 at the Corn Exchange in Edinburgh.

The Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing, Alex Neil, said: “As the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing, I often get to witness the outstanding work that goes into providing our health and social care services to the people of Scotland. And I continue to be truly humbled by the tireless commitment and compassion shown by the staff of our NHS in Scotland and in its partners in delivering these services.

“Every year the Scottish Health Awards provide us with an opportunity to recognise those who make an exceptional contribution to delivering quality health and social care services and to those who deliver consistent, reliable and responsive healthcare in the NHS in Scotland.

“It is only right that we shine a spotlight on some of the most exceptional people who go that extra mile to deliver the very best of care and to that end; I hope that patients, the public and staff will take the opportunity to nominate the people who deserve to be recognised for their work.

“The awards celebrate not only the contribution of frontline health and social care workers but also those who work so hard behind the scenes in support roles to ensure we have the kind of healthcare and care services that are the envy of many other countries.”

NHS Forth Valley Chief Executive, Jane Grant, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to recognise those who provide the very best healthcare to people across Forth Valley. Our staff work hard to ensure that local services are delivered to the highest standards.

“Make sure you nominate your local healthcare hero and give them the recognition they deserve.”